Tattoo and Piercing Establishments

Body Tattoo/Body Piercing establishments and operators are permitted in all Northeast Health District counties. Environmental Health Specialist routinely inspect establishments to ensure the health and safety of clients and artist as outlined in the Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishments and Operators Rules and Regulations. Permits and the most recent health inspections must be posted and visible to the public. If you are going to undergo a procedure, please ask to see the establishment permit, the permit of the operator that will be performing your work and the last routine inspection report.

There are several health risks associated with tattooing including infection, hepatitis B and C, MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureaus), HIV, allergic reactions, keloid formations and granulomas. Additional information is available on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishment Permit Application Guidelines

The following guidelines are intended to provide guidance and assistance for individuals requesting a Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishment Permit. These guidelines should be reviewed along with the current “Rules and Regulations for Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishments and Operators”.

Submit the completed application along with required documentation and applicable fees to the County Health Department’s Environmental Health office.

Required Documentation for application/permit approval:

Establishment floor plan and design requirements

Each application for a permit shall be accompanied by an 8 1/2″x11″ or larger page containing a detailed floor drawing to scale of the establishment. Such drawing shall show the accurate placement of each of the following: windows, doors, room measurements, chairs, tables, sinks, bathrooms, work stations, cleaning room, waiting area, and equipment placement for clients and/or staff. This scale drawing and floor plan shall be submitted at least 14 days prior to construction or remodeling of any new Body Tattoo/Body Piercing establishment. A pre-opening inspection of the premises will be required before Body Tattoo/Body Piercing services can be performed in this new facility/renovated area. Specification sheets must be submitted all for equipment.

Written documentation of policies and standard operating procedures

Prior to being granted a permit, each Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishment shall develop a written statement of policies and standard operating procedures including:

Provide a list of all employees who will be working in the studio (include full legal name and employee position) and documentation for each employee in relation to completion of training in Blood Borne Pathogens/Universal Precautions and Basic First Aid/CPR Certification. Provide documentation for the acceptance or contraindication for each employee concerning Hepatitis B Vaccination.

Compliance with local laws/ordinances

Provide documentation for compliance with local zoning, certificate of occupancy, business license, etc. if applicable.

Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Operator Permit Application Guidelines

The following guidelines are intended to provide guidance and assistance for individuals requesting a Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Operator Permit. These guidelines should be reviewed along with the current “Rules and Regulations for Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishments and Operators”. It should be noted that in order to be eligible for consideration for a Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Operator Permit you must provide proof of employment at a currently permitted Body Tattoo/Body Piercing Establishment.